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Cozy Spiced Witches Brew Apple Cider

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A rich, complex, and warm spiced apple cider made with whole spices and fresh ginger. This easy stovetop recipe creates a cozy autumn drink that is perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 100% apple juice (cold-pressed or locally sourced preferred)
  • 2 inches fresh ginger root, peeled and sliced thin
  • 2–3 large cinnamon sticks (Ceylon preferred)
  • 6–8 whole cloves
  • 2 star anise pods
  • 1 large strip orange peel (avoiding white pith)
  • 5–6 whole allspice berries
  • Honey or maple syrup (optional, to taste)

Instructions

  1. Peel the ginger and slice it into thin coins. Peel the orange to get a long strip of colored peel, avoiding the bitter white pith.
  2. Pour the apple juice into a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven.
  3. Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, allspice, ginger, and orange peel to the pot. Stir to submerge ingredients.
  4. Heat over medium-high until the mixture reaches a gentle simmer with small bubbles breaking the surface. Do not boil vigorously.
  5. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the color darkens and spices are fragrant.
  6. Taste the cider. If desired, add honey or maple syrup for sweetness and stir until dissolved. Adjust spices if needed.
  7. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Strain through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth-lined sieve into a jug, discarding the solids.
  8. Serve immediately in warm mugs, garnished with a cinnamon stick or orange slice.

Notes

Avoid boiling the cider as it can make the spices bitter and burn off apple flavors. For a clearer drink, use cheesecloth. The flavor deepens over time, so it tastes great reheated. Can be made in a slow cooker on low for 3-4 hours.

Nutrition

Keywords: spiced cider, apple cider, fall drink, witches brew, holiday drink, non-alcoholic mulled cider, cozy autumn recipes

Find it online: https://avabowls.com/cozy-spiced-witches-brew-apple-cider-best-easy-fall-drink/